Universal Box System

ABSTRACT

A universal electrical box which includes a body having at least one opening for receiving an electrical device. The device can also include at least one mounting bracket coupled to the body, and at least one frame configured to be coupled to the at least one body. In addition there is at least one duplex electrical mounting plate configured to couple to the at least one frame. In this case, the duplex electrical mounting plate is configured to receive a duplex electrical device. In addition, there is at least one sealing gasket configured to be coupled to the body between the at least one frame and the body. This design allows for a universal configuration which allows for multiple different types of electrical devices to be coupled to the enclosure.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/787,336 filed on May 25, 2010, the disclosure ofwhich is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

One embodiment of the invention relates to a universal box system whichis configured to work with any type box, in particular FD boxes, whichallows for the mounting of multiple different types of electricaldevices to the FD box. The universal box system can include multipledifferent adapters which are configured to be connected to the universalbox to allow different types of electrical devices to be connected tothe universal box.

There are currently multiple types of electrical devices that can becoupled to a FD box, including strap mounted electrical devices, nonstrap mounted electrical devices, or water resistant devices. Currentlythere is no known box that is universally adaptable to receive strapbased electrical devices, non strap based electrical devices or waterresistant electrical devices.

In addition, with regard to FD boxes, particularly in the multiple gangtype devices, previously, electrical devices would foe ganged togetherwith a double gang cover, triple gang cover or other type of multiganged cover, which would have to be pre-fabricated to fit on a multiganged box. This is because prior to the present invention, there was noknown, box and system which would allow for the individual mounting ofsingle gang devices and covers across a multi ganged enclosure.Therefore, there is a need for a universal mounting face as describedabove, and/or a system which allows for the counting of multiple singlegang devices and individual single gang covers on a multi gang box.

SUMMARY

At least one embodiment of the invention relates to a universalelectrical box such as a FD box, comprising a body having at least oneopening for receiving an electrical device. In addition, there is atleast one opening for receiving electrical wiring from building wiring.The device can also include at least one mounting bracket coupled to thebody, and at least one plate configured to be coupled to the at leastone body. In addition, there is at least one duplex electrical frameconfigured to couple to the at least one plate. The duplex electricalframe is configured to receive a duplex electrical device. In addition,there is at least one sealing gasket configured to be coupled to thebody between the at least one frame and the body. This design allows fora universal configuration which allows for multiple different types ofelectrical devices to be coupled to the enclosure.

At least one additional embodiment relates to a system which isconfigured to allow multiple different single gang devices andassociated front covers to be mounted on a multi ganged enclosure orbox. One embodiment includes a multi ganged box which is dimensionedsuch that there are multiple different connection interfaces forreceiving multiple different single gang electrical devices. Inaddition, this multi ganged system includes at least one frame which hassufficient spacing to both cover open sections of the box while stillproviding sufficient spacing between each connection interface to allowmultiple different single gang electrical devices and enclosures to becoupled thereto without interfering with each other.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other objects and features of the present invention will become apparentfrom the following detailed description considered in connection withthe accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that thedrawings are designed for the purpose of illustration only and not as adefinition of the limits of the invention.

In the drawings, wherein similar reference characters denote- similarelements throughout the several views:

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a single gang boxfully assembled;

FIG. 1B is a perspective exploded view of the first embodiment;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the unassembled first embodiment of abox;

FIG. 2B is a side cross-sectional view of the universal box shown inFIG. 2A;

FIG. 2C is a front view of the universal box shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2Aand 2B;

FIG. 2D is a side cross sectional view taken down the middle of theuniversal box of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2E shows a front view showing the connection regions for connectinga duplex electrical device;

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a second embodiment;

FIG. 4A is a front view of the second embodiment;

FIG. 4B is a side cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in FIG.4A;

FIG. 4C is a top view of a universal box of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the universal box of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5B shows a front view of a double gang enclosure showing connectionregions for a duplex electrical device;

FIG. 6A is a front view of a frame for use with the universal box ofFIG. 3;

FIG. 6B is a side cross-sectional view of the frame;

FIG. 6C is a side view of the frame;

FIG. 6D is a perspective view of the frame;

FIG. 6E is a back view of the frame;

FIG. 6F shows a side perspective view of a planar board isolator;

FIG. 6G shows an end view of the planar board isolator;

FIG. 6H shows a side view of the planar board isolator;

FIG. 6I shows another end view of the planar board isolator taken fromthe right side in FIG. 6F;

FIG. 6J is a front view of the isolator inserted into a box;

FIG. 6K is a perspective view of the isolator inserted into a box;

FIG. 7A is a front perspective view of the gasket shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 7B is a front view of the gasket;

FIG. 7C is a back view of the gasket;

FIG. 8A is a perspective view of a triple gang universal box;

FIG. 8B is a front view of the universal box shown in FIG. 8A;

FIG. 8C is a top cross-sectional view of the universal box shown in FIG.8B;

FIG. 8D is a top view of the universal box shown in FIGS. 8A, 8B;

FIG. 8E shows a top or bottom cross-sectional view of the triple gangbox shown in FIG. 8A;

FIG. 8F shows a front view of a triple gang box showing connectionregions;

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a triple gang gasket; and

FIG. 9B is a front view of a triple gang gasket.

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a frame for use with a triple gangbox;

FIG. 10B is a front view of the frame shown in FIG. 10A;

FIG. 10C is a back view of the frame shown in FIG. 10A;

FIG. 10D is a side view of the frame shown in FIG. 10A;

FIG. 11A is a front perspective view of the assembled design of a singlegang enclosure;

FIG. 11B is a front perspective view of the assembled design of thedouble gang enclosure;

FIG. 11C is a front-top perspective view of the assembled triple gangenclosure;

FIG. 12A is a top view of a switch mechanism;

FIG. 12B is a side cross-sectional view of the switch mechanism;

FIG. 12C is a bottom view of the switch mechanism;

FIG. 12D is a perspective view of the switch mechanism;

FIG. 12E is a side view of the switch mechanism;

FIG. 12F is a view of the spring associated with the switch mechanism;

FIG. 12G is a close up view of the switch mechanism taken from FIG. 12A;

FIG. 13 is a bottom view of the switch mechanism coupled to a spring;

FIG. 14A is a top perspective view of a toggle switch shown in FIG. 11B,showing the toggle switch in a first position;

FIG. 14B is a top perspective view of the toggle switch shown in FIG.13A in a second position; and

FIG. 14C is a top perspective view of the toggle switch shown in FIG.13A in a third position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring in detail to the drawings, FIG. 1A-B is a front perspectiveview of a first embodiment 5, which includes a universal electrical box10, which can be in the form of a FD box, wherein this box comprises abody 12, and a back mounting bracket 14. Box 10 can be made from anyknown suitable material such as metal, ceramic, composite, polymer, orplastic. In at least one embodiment, the box 10 is made from PVC orpolyvinyl chloride. Body 12 is substantially rectangular, and in thisembodiment, is a single gang enclosure having five sides and an openfront. This box 10 is in the form of a universal box which is configuredto be coupled to an outdoor portion of a building such as an officebuilding or a house.

Body 12 has a mounting or connection interface 11 formed in a frontopening. Body 12 is configured to receive multiple different types ofsingle-gang sized electrical devices such as receptacles, lightswitches, indicator lights or any other type of suitable single gangdevice in this mounting or connection interface 11. For purposes of thisapplication, the term single gang refers to a dimension sufficient toreceive, a single electrical device such as a standard duplex electricalreceptacle. The dimensions of the terms “single gang”, “double gang”,and “triple gang” are generally known in the industry and indicated byNEMA. Therefore, for purposes of this application a double gangdimension is a dimension sufficient to receive at least two electricaldevices such as two duplex electrical receptacles in a side by sidemanner. The term triple gang refers to a dimension sufficient to receiveat least three electrical devices such as three duplex electricalreceptacles in a side by side manner.

Back mounting bracket 14 comprises a first end 14 a, and a second end 14b. These ends each including holes wherein the first end 14 a includesholes 15 a and 15 b while the second end 14 b comprises holes 15 c and15 d (See FIG. 2A).

Body 12 also includes a front rim 16 which expands from the body 12 toaccommodate additional adapters such as a front plate, or any other typeof appropriate adapter. Front rim 16 also includes an additional guiderim 16 a (See FIG. 1B) which extends out from a front face of front rim16.

In addition, body 12 includes five walls, including a first side wall 17a, and a second side wall 17 b extending perpendicular or substantiallyperpendicular to the first side wall 17 a. A third side wall 17 c (SeeFIG. 2C) is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the secondside wall 17 b and extends substantially parallel to the first side wall17 a. A fourth side wall 17 d is perpendicular or substantiallyperpendicular to the first side wall 17 a and the third side wall 17 cand extends substantially parallel to the second side wall 17 b. Inaddition, a fifth back wall 17 e (See FIG. 2B) extends substantiallyperpendicular to the side wails 17 a-d. These walls 17 a-17 e areconnected together to form an open-faced box, however, other styleconfigurations can be used, such as a square box, a rounded box, acircle, hexagon, octagon, pentagon, or any other round shaped device orpolygonal shaped device.

FIG. 1B shows a front perspective exploded view of the embodiment shownin FIG. 1A wherein in this view, there is a front plate 20, having atongue 22 which extends substantially perpendicular to the body of thefront plate. This plate 20 includes a plurality of openings 24 a, 24 b,24 c, and 24 d. The plate 20 can be made from any suitable material butin at least one embodiment, it is a metal plate made from a metal suchas stainless steel. Body 12 includes a plurality of connection elementswhich can be comprised of any known connection elements but in this casecomprise cylindrically shaped posts 18 a, 18 b, 18 c and 18 d, 18 e, 18f, 18 g, and 18 h. Posts 18 a and 18 b are disposed in a first corner,posts 18 c and 18 d are disposed in a second corner, posts 18 e and 18 fare disposed in a third corner, and posts 18 g and 18 h are disposed ina fourth corner. The first axis 12 i extends lengthwise across the box10. Posts 18 a and 18 d are at substantially the same positionlengthwise along a first dimension or length (l), posts 18 b and 18 care at substantially the same position lengthwise along this firstdimension, posts 18 e and 18 b are at substantially the same positionlengthwise along the first dimension or length (12 i) while posts 18 fand 18 g are at substantially the same position lengthwise along thisdimension (l) along axis 12 i. This dimension l is the first dimension,and with a single gang enclosure is the longer dimension or expansion ofthe box. It also corresponds to the dimension that is parallel to theextension of wiring holes 19 a and 19 b (See FIG. 2A).

The second axis 12 ii extends widthwise across the box 10. In addition,posts 18 a and 18 e are at substantially the same position width wisealong the width dimension along axis 12 ii, posts 18 b and 18 f are atsubstantially the same position width wise along the dimension (w),while posts 18 c and 18 g are at substantially the same dimension widthwise 12 ii, while posts 18 d and 18 h are at substantially the samedimension width wise (w). This post configuration allows for multipledifferent types of electrical devices, as well as plates to be coupledto the universal box. For example, in this view of FIG. 1B, the plate 20has a plurality of eye holes 26 a, 26 b, 26 c, and 26 d wherein theseeye holes are configured to line up with or be substantially concentricwith corresponding posts 18 b, 18 c, 18 f, and 18 g.

There are a set of connection elements such as inner posts, andconnection elements such as outer posts, wherein the inner posts areposts 18 b, 18 c, 18 f and 18 g, while the outer posts are posts 18 a,18 d, 18 e, and 18 h. Inner posts are configured to selectively receivea strap based electrical mounting device while the outer posts areconfigured to receive a non-strap based electrical device or a frontcover such as that shown in FIGS. 11A-13C. The outer posts areconfigured in the box based upon an industry standard spacing.

In addition, there are rounded corner openings in the plate 20 includingopenings 24 a, 24 b, 24 c, and 24 d, which are configured to besubstantially concentric with outer posts 18 a, 18 d, 18 e, and 18 h,respectively. This design allows for additional components such as frontcovers to be connected to the plate 20 while also being connecteddirectly to the body 12 of the universal box 10. Tongue 22 serves as aguide which guides plats 20 inside box 10. Furthermore, the innerconnection elements formed as posts 18 b, 18 c, 18 f and 18 g are formedas recessed posts which are formed recessed relative to the outer posts18 a, 18 d, 18 e end 18 h thereby allowing plate 20 to be insertedtherein and forming a single flush mounting face for all of the posts.

The first and second wiring holes 19 a and 19 b are configured toreceive building wire, which provides electrical power to the universalbox 10. The first wiring hole 19 a is configured to be adjacent to backmounting bracket 14, including first end 14 a and second end 14 b.Therefore, there is a first cut out 19 c in first end 14 a of backmounting bracket 14, and a second cut out 19 d in the second end 14 b ofback mounting bracket 14. This allows a pipe fitting to be fit inside ofwiring holes 19 a and 19 b.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the universal box 10. In this view, asecond wiring hole 19 b is shown which is substantially concentric withfirst wiring hole 19 a. First and second wiring holes 19 a, 19 b allowbuilding wiring to pass into the box. This view shows recesses or cutouts 23 a, 23 b, 23 c, and 23 d formed, in the connection elements suchas posts 18 b, 18 c, 18 f, and 18 g, which provide additional connectionspace for a device to be inserted into that region. Cut outs or recesses23 a and 23 c are also shown in FIG. 2D as well.

FIG. 2B is a side cross-sectional view of the universal box 10, whereinin this view, posts 18 a, 18 b, 18 e and 18 f are shown extendingfrusto-conically into box 10 to show posts that are tapered in size.These posts 18 a, 18 b, 18 e, 18 f are shown extending substantiallyparallel to each other inside of body 12.

FIG. 2C is a front view of the universal box 10 which shows posts 18 a,18 b, 18 c, 18 d, 18 e, 18 f, 18 g and 18 h extending as describedabove. Each of these posts has a corresponding connector 21 a, 21 b, 21c, 21 d, 21 e, 21 f, 21 g, and 21 h for respective coupling the post toan adjacent side wall.

As shown in this view, body 12 comprises a first pair of substantiallyparallel spaced side walls, including first side wall 17 a, and thirdside wall 17 c extending substantially parallel to a first axis 12 i;and a second pair of substantially parallel spaced sides walls,including second side wall 17 b and fourth side wall 17 d extendingsubstantially parallel to a second axis 12 ii. Body 12 further comprisesa plurality of posts 18 a-18 h as described above, comprising a firstset of posts comprising posts 18 a, 18 d, 18 e and 18 h. coupled to thefirst pair of substantially parallel spaced first and third sidewalls 17a, 17 c, and a second set of posts comprising posts 18 b, 18 c, 18 f,and 18 g being coupled to the first set of pests 18 a, 18 d, 18 e, 18 hrespectively, and being spaced apart from the first set of substantiallyparallel spaced first and third side walls 17 a, 17 c. These differentsets of posts provide for multiple different connection surfaces toallow for multiple different types of plates as well as different typesof electrical devices and covers to be coupled to the universal box.

FIG. 2D is a side cross sectional view taken down the middle of box 10,wherein this view shows first and second wiring holes 19 a and 19 bextending concentrically into box 10. This view also shows recesses 23 aand 23 c formed in box 10.

FIG. 2E shows a front view of the single gang box 10, which shows astandard width dimension 29 w and a standard length dimension 29 l. Inaddition, because of recesses 23 a-d (FIG. 2A), there are formed twoseparate connection or mounting regions 29 a and 29 b which areconfigured to receive a duplex wiring device which can have in at leastone instance a circular or rounded dimension. These recesses 23 a-dallow for additional devices, such as duplex electrical receptacles, tobe installed therein. As shown, these recesses 23 a-d are formed asangled, flat shaped cut-outs formed in rounded posts. These recesses 23a-d allow for curved or rounded receptacle elements to slide therein.

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a second embodiment whichshows a double gang universal box 30, which essentially comprises twosets of boxes 10 (See FIG. 2A) without intervening walls. Box 30comprises an expansive front rim 36, and first side wall 37 a, secondside wail 37 b, third side wall 37 c, fourth side Wall 37 d and a fifthback wall 37 e wherein these walls are coupled together to form an openbox. Front rim 36 further comprises a front edge rim 36 a which isconfigured to index with plates, covers, gaskets, and frames which canbe coupled to this front rim. Front rim 36 extends around a frontopening forming a connection interface 31 (FIG. 4A). Essentially theconnection interface 31 is formed by the opening in the box and thesurrounding connection elements.

The term index or indexing essentially relates to aligning componentstogether in a complementary manner such that they fit in their desiredmanner. Grooves, protrusions, keys, male-female connections can be usedto index two components together.

Double gang universal box 30 comprises a plurality of differentconnection elements such as posts 38 a, 38 b, 38 c, 38 d, 38 e, 38 f, 38g, 38 h, 38 i, 38 j, 38 k, 38 l, 38 m, 38 n, 38 o, 38 p. A first groupof posts 38 a-38 h correspond in dimension and spacing to posts 18 a-18h, while a second group of posts 38 i-38 p correspond in dimension andspacing to posts 18 a-18 h as well. Therefore, these two groups ofconnection posts 38 a-h, 38 i-p form a connection interface having twodifferent types of connections in a double gang enclosure.

Posts 38 b, 38 c, 38 f, and 38 g correspond to inner posts, along withposts 38 j, 38 k, 38 n, and 38 o also forming inner posts. Consequently,posts 38 a, 38 d, 38 e, and 38 h, along with posts 38 i, 33 l, 38 m, and38 p form outer posts. Therefore, these posts provide a universal ornearly universally adaptable face for receiving fasteners for couplingto brackets, plates, gaskets, or for coupling directly with differentelectrical devices with the inner posts being configured to receivestrap based electrical devices while the outer posts are configured toreceive front covers shown in FIGS. 11A-13C. In addition, posts 38 d and38 h are spaced apart from posts 38 i and 38 m such that a sufficientdistance is created to allow two different individual single gangelectrical devices to be mounted to the box with corresponding differentsingle gang covers being mounted over these electrical boxes as well.This distance can be for example at least two inches.

Box 30 is configured as a double gang box which is configured to bemounted on an exterior portion of a wall and designed to receive twodifferent single gang electrical devices or a single integrated doublegang electrical device.

This view also shows a back mounting bracket including first end 34 aand second end 34 b as well as holes 35 a, 35 b, 35 c, 35 d, 35 e, and35 f for mounting the universal box to another surface. In addition,there are different wiring holes 39 a, 39 b, 39 c, and 39 d whereinwiring holes 39 a and 39 c are concentric with each other and wiringholes 39 b and 39 d are concentric with each other.

Furthermore, there is also shown a gasket 50 which can be comprised ofany suitable type of sealing element such as plastic, metal or rubber,wherein, in at least one embodiment there is a thermoplastic rubber. Inat least one embodiment, the gasket 50 is at least partially made ofrubber such that it Is configured to seal the interior of the box fromany exterior elements when a bracket such as an adapter or frame 60 iscoupled to the box. Gasket 50 is discussed in greater detail in FIGS.7A-7C.

Frame 60 comprises first and second openings 61 a and 61 b, (See FIG. 6a) as well as a central face 62. In addition, a support extension 64 iscoupled to central face 62 and extends therein away from central face62. Frame 60 is discussed in greater detail in FIGS. 6A-6E. Central face62 is spaced a sufficient distance to allow two different single gangelectrical devices to be mounted to the two individual connectioninterfaces with two different single gang adapter covers being mountedover these electrical devices. In at least one embodiment the width ofcentral face 62 could be 1 inch, approximately 1 inch or at least oneinch, in at least one additional embodiment the width of central face 62could be 1.25 inches, while in at least one further embodiment the widthof central face 62 could be at least 1.5 inches.

In addition, a plurality of plates 20 having grounding wiring 20 a canbe set inside of the first and second openings 61 a, 61 b of the frame60 to create a universally adaptable face for mounting electricaldevices.

FIG. 4A is a front view of the second embodiment of the box 30 whichalso shows a connection interface 31 having a plurality of connectionelements formed by sliding posts. These connection elements comprise aplurality of sliding posts 33 a, 33 b, 33 c and 33 d, wherein slidingposts 33 a and 33 b form a first set of parallel spaced sliding posts,while sliding posts 33 c and 33 d form a second set of sliding posts.These posts are configured to support a frame 60 when it is insertedinto the box.

FIG. 4B is a side, cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in FIG.4A taken along the Axis 30 i. Since the box is symmetrical, this viewcan either be a top cross-sectional view looking down at the bottom halfof the box or a bottom cross sectional view looking up at the top of thebox. In this view, there is shown wiring holes 39 c and 39 d which areconcentric with wiring holes 39 a and 39 b shown in FIG. 3.

As shown, there are recesses 43 a, 43 b, 43 e, and 43 f shown based upona bottom view looking up at the device. In addition, there is also showna top down view, wherein recesses 43 g, 43 h, 43 c and 43 d are shown.

FIG. 4C shows a top view which shows posts such as posts 38 a, 38 b, 38c, 38 d, 38 i, 38 j, 88 k and 38 l extending outside of the box. Thisadditional extension allows for the sealing gasket and the frame to beplaced on the box and still provide a post that can be used, to allow anelectrical device such as a strap mounted electrical device or a nonstrap mounted electrical device to be coupled to the box 30.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4A whichshows posts 38 a-38 p with their respective configurations as shown inFIG. 4A. In addition this view also shows wiring holes 39 c and 39 d.This view also shows a connection interface 31 for at least twodifferent ganged electrical devices. In this connection interface arerecesses 43 a, 43 b, 43 e and 43 f shown in greater detail in FIG. 4B.

Essentially, a connection interface 31 is formed on the front end of thebox and can comprise any one of posts or other types of connectionelements such as first group of posts 38 a-38 h, forming a firstconnection interface along with the respective side wails formed by rims36 and 36 a. If a frame 60 is added or a plate 20 is added theseconnection elements can also be used to form the connection interface.

FIG. 5B shows a front view of the double gang box showing connection ormounting regions 45 a, 45 b, 45 c, and 45 d, which representsubstantially rounded openings such as circular shaped or oval shapedopenings, formed in the connection interface 31 and which are configuredto receive circular shaped electrical devices such as a duplexreceptacle. With this design, because the box 30 is a double gang box,the box 30 is configured to receive two different electrical devicessuch as two different single gang duplex receptacles installed side byside in the box (See for example FIG. 11B).

FIG. 6A is a front view of a frame 60 for use with the universal box ofFIG. 3. Frame 60 includes first and second openings 61 a and 61 b, asdiscussed above. First opening 61 a includes outer rim 62 a, tabs 63 aand 63 b, inner rim 65 a as well as cut outs 65 b, 65 c, 65 d and 65 e.In addition, second opening 61 b includes outer rim 62 b and alsoincludes tabs 67 a and 67 b as well as an inner rim 66 a as well as cutouts 66 b, 66 c, 66 d, 66 e. Central face 62 is configured to dividethese first and second openings 61 a and 61 b, and as disclosed above isconfigured to space two different single gang devices and theirrespective covers apart.

In addition, support extension 64 (See FIG. 6B-6F) is coupled to centralface 62 and extends therein away from central face 62. Support extension64 is configured to line up with sliding posts 33 a, 33 b, 33 c, and 33d (See FIG. 4A) such that support extension 64 slides on top of thesesliding posts to be supported on these sliding posts to be easilysupported on an associated box. FIG. 6C shows the side view of thisbracket which shows a semi-circular cut out 64 a of this supportextension 64. Cut-outs 64 a is formed to allow a user to extend his orher hand through from one area to another inside of box 30.

In addition FIGS. 6F-6I show different views for an isolator 70, whichcan comprise a planar board. This isolator 70 then completely dividestwo different ganged enclosures so that low voltage wiring can be fedinto each now separate box without any Interference from the wiring ofthe other box. This isolator 70 can be configured from any suitablematerial such as plastic, PVC, or any other type material.

Isolator 70 comprises a central section 71, first and second ends 73 and75 wherein first end 73 comprises a central rounded hub 73 a, and twowings 73 b and 73 c. In addition, second end 75 comprises a centralrounded hub 75 a and two wings 75 b and 75 c. When isolator 70 isinserted into the slot formed by sliding posts 33 a, 33 b, 33 c, or 33e, or sliding posts 83 a, 83 b, 83 e and 83 f (FIG. 6J) or into a regionformed by sliding posts 83 c, 83 d, 83 g and 83 h, isolator 70 wouldthen divide the box into different compartments. With this design, firstand second ends 73 and 75 would slide into this region. In addition,region 71 a formed from section 71 would then extend out from thisregion. A frame 60 or 100 could then slide in over this region 71 b,thereby sealing off with this region inserting into semi-circular cutout 64 a of support extension 64.

For example, FIG. 6G shows how wings 75 b and 75 c would slide into aregion formed by sliding posts 83 a and 83 b. Wings 75 b and 75 c wouldextend over sliding posts 83 a and 83 b so that these posts would lockthis isolator 70 into place.

FIG. 6J is a front view of triple gang box 80 with multiple isolators 70inserted into the triple gang box 80. In this view there are slidingposts 83 a, 83 b 83 e, and 83 f surrounding ends 75 and 73 respectivelyof isolator 70. In addition, there are sliding posts 83 c, 83 d,surrounding end 75, and sliding posts 83 g and 83 h surrounding end 73thereby securing isolator 70 within box 80.

FIG. 6K shows a perspective view of box 80 which shows multipleisolators 70 inserted therein. This view shows how end 71 a of isolator70 extends out towards the front side of box 80. This end 71 a allowssupport extension such as support extension 64 or 104 a or 104 b to fitover this end 71 a. Thus, this isolator 70 is configured to isolate eachgang of a box, while still allowing a frame such as frame 60 or frame100 to fit onto a front end of the box. Another benefit of the isolator70 in combination with a triple gang box 80 is that a triple gang box 80when divided up by isolator 70 creates three separate single gang boxeswhich have a larger interior volume for fitting additional wires orcomponents therein. For example, the volume of an individual box such asbox 10 could be approximately 26 cubic inches while the volume for adivided single gang compartment of a triple gang box 80 or a double gangbox 30 would be approximately 31 cubic inches. The larger volume wouldtherefore allow for more wires to fit inside of the box. This benefitalong with the benefit of fitting low voltage wiring inside of eachdivided compartment provides additional benefit for isolating eachsingle gang compartment of a multiple gang box.

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of the gasket 50 which includes acorresponding gap or post 52 a, 52 b configured to receive supportextension 64. Gasket 50 includes an outer rim 51, and an inner lip orrim 53. Posts 52 a and 52 b are cut out from inner lip or rim 53. Inaddition, there are a plurality of cut outs 55 a, 55 b, 55 c, 55 d, 55e, 55 f, 55 g and 55 h which are configured to line up with respectiveposts 38 b, 38 c, 38 j, 38 k, 38 f, 38 g, 38 n and 38 o. FIG. 7B shows afront view of this gasket 50 and FIG. 7C shows a back view of gasket 50.

Gasket 50 also includes at least one, but in this embodiment twogrooves, one groove 53 a on a first or front side and another groove 58b on a back or opposite side. Gasket 50 is configured to index with rim36 a on box 30, and rim 62 b on the back end of frame 60.

FIG. 8A is a perspective view of a triple gang universal box 80 withFIG. 88 being the front view. FIG. 8C shows a cross-sectional view takenalong the line 80 i while FIG. 8D shows a top or bottom view with bothviews being identical or substantially identical. This box 80 includesfirst side wall 87 a, second side wall 87 b, third side wall 87 c andfourth side wall 87 d, wherein first and third side walls 87 a and 87 care parallel or substantially parallel to each other; while second andfourth side wails 87 b and 87 d are parallel or substantially parallelto each other, and substantially perpendicular to first and third sidewalls 87 a and 87 c. Box 80 also includes a rim 86 which forms a wideropening area, and wherein there is a front edge rim 86 a which extendsout from rim 86. Front edge rim 86 a is configured, to index with anassociated groove on a gasket such as gasket 90 shown in FIGS. 9A and9B.

Rim 86 surrounds an opening in box 86 which provides a connectioninterface 79. Connection interface 79 comprises this opening along withthe different connection elements such as connection elements or posts88 a-88 x spaced around this opening.

There is also first and second mounting brackets 84 a and 84 b extendingout from the box wherein first mounting bracket 84 a has screw holes 85a 85 b, 85 c and 85 d. Second mounting bracket 84 b has screw holes 85e, 85 f, 85 g, and 85 h wherein these screw holes are configured toallow screws or other mounting elements to mount the box on a wall.

In addition, there are sliding posts 83 a, 83 b, 83 c, 83 d, 83 e, 83 f,83 g, and 83 h. These sliding posts create a slot for allowing anisolator to be inserted therein.

Furthermore, the box 80 includes at least one but even up to threedifferent connection interfaces each comprising a plurality of differentconnection elements comprising a plurality of different posts 88 a-88 x,with the first group of posts 88 a-88 h forming a first group for asingle gang electrical enclosure, a second group of posts 88 i-88 pforming a second group of posts configured in a substantially identicalrespective manner to the posts 88 a-88 h, and posts 88 q-88 x formingthe third respective substantially identical group. In addition, wiringholes 89 a, 89 b, 89 c, 89 d, 89 e and 89 f are set into the box,wherein wiring holes 89 a and 89 d are concentric with each other,wiring holes 89 b and 89 e are concentric with each other, and wiringholes 89 c and 89 f are concentric with each other.

FIG. 8E is a cross-sectional view of box 80 taken along line A-A andthis view shows that it can be either a bottom cross sectional viewlooking up to a top or first side, relative to FIGS. 8A and 8B, or anopposite top down view looking at the bottom side. In this view, fromthe bottom up view, there are recesses 81 a, 81 b, 81 e, 81 f, 81 i, and81 j formed respectively in posts 88 b, 88 e, 88 j, 88 k, 88 r, and 88s. From the opposite, top down view looking at the bottom, there areshown recesses 81 k, 81 l, 81 g, 81 h, 81 c and 81 d, formedrespectively in posts 88 w, 88 v, 88 o, 83 n, 88 u, and 88 f (see FIG.8C.). FIG. 8F shows the result of these recesses, which, result insubstantially enlarged, and substantially round or even circularconnection regions such as. regions 82 a, 82 b, 82 c, 82 d, 82 e, and 82f formed in this box. This design would allow for the installation of aplurality of different front covers to be mounted side by side inside ofthis box. For example, standard duplex electrical receptacles such asthose shown with covers 120 a and 120 b in FIGS. 11A-11C can then beinstalled into this box.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a triple gang gasket 90, and FIG. 9B isa front view of the gasket 90. Gasket 90 includes a plurality of gaps 92a and 92 b, 92 c and 92 d configured to receive a support extension froman associated frame. Gasket 90 includes an outer rim 91, and an innerlip or rim 93. In addition, there are a plurality of cut outs 95 a, 95b, 95 c, 95 d 95 e, 95 f, 95 g, 95 h, 95 i, 95 j, 95 k, and 95 l whichare configured to line up with respective posts 88 b, 88 c, 88 j, 88 k,88 r, 88 s, 88 f, 88 g, 88 h, 88 o, 83 v, and 88 w. Furthermore, agroove 98 is configured to align with front edge rim 86 a on box 80 (SeeFIG. 8D). In addition, a groove (not shown) is on an opposite face andis configured to align with an extending rim 107 b on a back side offrame 100.

FIG. 10A is a front perspective view of a triple gang frame 100 whichhas a body section 100 a and includes two support extensions 104 a and104 b as well as two spacing faces 102 a and 102 b. These two spacingfaces provide sufficient spacing such as spacings 102 i and 102 ii toallow multiple individual single gang electrical devices, as well astheir individual single gang front covers to be mounted to the box overtheir respective devices. For example, as described above, this spacingof this front face could be at least 1 inch, or at least 1.25 inches orat least 1.5 inches.

In addition, there are three openings 101 a, 101 b, and 101 c bounded byouter rims 103 a, 103 b, and 103 c, as well as inner rims 105 a, 105 b,and 105 c. This design also includes tabs 106 a, 106 b, 106 c, 106 d,106 e and 106 f disposed in their respective openings. Each of the twosupport extensions 104 a, and 104 b includes a semi-circular cut out 109a, 109 b which allows for additional room inside of an associateduniversal box 80. There are also cut outs in inner rims 105 a, 105 b,and 105 c wherein these cut outs allow for access to associated innerposts. For example, there are cut outs 108 a, 108 b, 108 c, and 108 dwhich allow access to posts 88 b, 88 c, 88 f, and 88 g, while cut outs108 e, 108 f, 108 g, 108 h allow access to posts 88 j, 88 k, 88 n, 88 o,while cut outs 108 i, 108 j, 108 k, and 108 l allow access to posts 88r, 88 s, 88 v, and 88 w thereby allowing an additional front plate to bemounted thereon. These cut outs 108 a-108 l are configured to receive orare: configured to be allowed to receive screws or other types offasteners configured to fasten an electrical device and. alsocorrespondingly the frame to a triple gang box.

This embodiment also includes extending rims 107 a which extend out froma front side, while an extending rim 107 b extends out from a back side.These extending rims allow the device to be indexed with other elementssuch as gasket 90 wherein extending rim 107 b would fit inside of acomplementary groove 97 (not shown) on gasket 90.

This triple gang box 80 is configured to be able to receive front platesthat can be in the form of a single triple gang front plate 20 so thatstrap based devices can be mounted, non strap based devices can also bemounted or front covers can also foe mounted to any one or all of theconnection interfaces.

FIG. 10C is a back view of the frame 100 shown in FIG. 10A, in this viewthere is shown support extensions 104 a and 104 b wherein these supportextensions include semi-circular cut outs 109 a and 109 b shown ingreater detail in FIG. 10D, wherein these cut outs are configured toallow a user to move his fingers inside of the triple gang box.

These designs with the body or housing such as boxes 10, 30, and 80 inthe form of respective single gang, double gang or triple gangenclosures provide for a universally adaptable box which is configuredto receive multiple different style electrical devices therein. Inaddition because frames are also available, along with correspondinggaskets, this allows for a universally adaptable interface for universalboxes which thereby allows a person using this box to have a widevariety of means for connecting these devices.

FIG. 11A shows a front perspective view of the completed box whichincludes the body 12, a front rim 16, along with sealing adapter covers120 a and 120 b disposed on a two part frame comprising frames 119 a and119 b. As stated above, because of a plate, a strap mounted electricaldevice can be mounted to an electrical box, with an additionalunincorporated single gang cover being mounted independently andseparately over the strap mounted device. Once the two components aremounted on the single gang box, they can remain coupled to the boxsimultaneously due to the universal mounting face.

FIG. 11B is a perspective view of a double gang box which includes a box30, along with adapter covers 120 a, and 120 b. In addition, there is atoggle switch 130 which includes a handle 131. Covers 120 a, 120 b, andtoggle switch 130 are all coupled to box 30 with gasket 50, and frame 60being positioned in between. As described above, gasket 50 provides awater resistant seal, while frame 60 provides individually mountablesections for two different single gang electrical devices, which can bemounted via a strap style mounting by using an additional plate such asplate 20. As described above, with this design, frame 60 includes acentral face 62 which provides a sufficient spacing distance to allowfor a hinge overhang such as via hinge 121 a, wherein this hingeoverhang would not interfere with a separately mounted single gangdevice such as a toggle switch 130.

FIG. 11C is a front-top perspective view of the triple gang enclosure,wherein in this view there is a triple gang box 80 which has a frontcover 140 which includes a cover section 140 a along with a hinge 141.This cover 140 is configured to cover and seal this section of thetriple gang box. In addition, there are shown adapter covers 120 a and120 b along with hinges 121 a and 121 b.

This view also shows box 80 which is a triple gang box, and which hasassociated with it gasket 90 and frame 100. As described above, gasket90 along with frame 100 creates a water resistant seal with box 80,wherein frame 100 allows three different individual, single gang devicesto be mounted to the box 80. In addition, in each of the single gangopenings formed by frame 100, plate 20 can be used to allow strap basedelectrical devices to be mounted on the front face. However, becausethis box design 80 includes both inner and outer sets of posts for eachof the single gang enclosures, additional front covers such as adaptercovers 120 a and 120 b, toggle switch 130 and cover 140.

As described above, because frame 100 includes spacing faces 102 a and102 b (See FIG. 10B), these spacing faces provide sufficient spacing sothat three individually mounted single gang devices with theirindividually mounted single gang covers can be mounted side by side on amulti ganged box such as on triple gang box 80. Thus, there is no needto form a single integrated multi-ganged cover for covering ail threedevices because the spacing provided by spacing faces 102 a and 102 ballows for the individual mounting of the electrical devices and theirassociated individual covers.

Furthermore, there are shown both reducers 150 configured to be receivedinside of holes such as wiring holes 19 a, and 19 b (See FIG. 1A). Inaddition, caps 160 are shown for plugging these wiring holes. Multipledifferent sited reducers or caps can be used to either reduce thediameter for receiving a feed pipe or for plugging a hole.

All of these elements including any one of box 10, box 30 or box 80,gasket 50, frame 60, gasket 90 and frame 100 can each be sold as a kitalong with other optional parts such as caps 160 and reducers 150 whichfit inside of holes such as wiring holes 19 a and 19 b.

As stated above, these type boxes with both the inner and outer sets ofmounting posts, allow both strap mounted devices and non strap mounteddevices to be simultaneously or separately mounted on a box such as a FDbox, with the FD cover or front cover being mounted on top. With thedesigns of FIGS. 11A-11C, a strap based electrical device such as aswitch is mounted first on the FD box, and then the front cover 136 (seeFIG. 14A) is mounted on the box such as box 10. The front cover 136covers the switch and keeps it from becoming impinged or corroded byelements. In addition, because covers such as cover 136 can be mountedon the box over a strap mounted device, additional devices such astoggle switch 130 can foe placed over the switch to create a switchhaving a threshold tripping mechanism which biases the switch, in eitheran “on” position or an “off” position wherein these positions relate towhether power is passed to a downstream load associated with the switch.

FIG. 12A is a top view of a switch mechanism or actuator 170 whichincludes a body section 170 a, and arms 171 and 172 forming a fork. FIG.12B is a side cross-sectional view of the switch mechanism 170 whichincludes body section 170 a, a post section 173, and a central hole 174extending into post section 173. Central hole 174 is for receiving ascrew or bolt for securing this switch mechanism to an adjacent housing.There are also holes or relief 176 and 177 with hole 176 configuredradially out from a center region while hole 177 is configured to be ina central region of body section 170 a.

FIG. 12C is a bottom view of the switch mechanism 170 which shows radialhole 175 along with arms 171 and 172 coupled to body section 170 a.Radial hole 175 is configured to receive an end of spring 180 shown inFIG. 12F.

FIG. 12D is a perspective view of the switch mechanism 170 having arms171 and 172, as well as holes 179 a and 179 b in arms 171 and 172respectively. There are also shown protrusions 171 a and 171 b (See FIG.12G) which are configured as protrusions to control the mountingorientation and which prevents the installation of the actuator in awrong orientation or position.

FIG. 12E is a side view of the switch, mechanism 170 which shows postsection 173.

FIG. 12F is a view of spring 180 which has a first end 181 and a second,end 182. There is also an intermediate curved section 183 which isconfigured to act as a spring, selectively compressing and expandingbased upon movement of toggle switch 130.

Spring 180 is coupled to switch mechanism 170 such that the first end181 is coupled to radial hole 175 while the second end 182 is coupled tothe housing for housing the device of the switch mechanism. FIG. 12G isa close up view of the switch mechanism 170 taken from FIG. 12A whereinin this view, there is shown post section 173, center hole 174, arms 171and 172, holes 179 a, and 179 b as well. This switch mechanism 170 iscoupled to spring 180 and is coupled inside of a housing 139 such asthat shown in FIG. 14A.

FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of the switch mechanism 170 coupled tospring 180 with a first end 181 being inserted into radial hole 175 anda second end 182 being coupled to a stationary portion or post of ahousing 139. When the switch mechanism 170 is rotated, from either an onor an off position, as shown by the arrow crossing over arms 171 and 172of the fork, this causes a temporary compression of spring 180 in region183. Once the rotation reaches a threshold tripping point or position,the compression of the spring forces the movement forward so that thespring expands so that the switch mechanism 170 completes its rotationalmotion. This motion results in the arms 171 and 172 then resting eitheron stop 139 a or stop 139 b which represent either an on or an offposition for an associated switch. Thus, during the initial rotationalmovement, the spring 180 is compressed further, however, after hittingor passing the threshold point, the spring 180 is pushed into a positionwhere it can expand such that it forces continued rotational movement onto the second position. Thus, the switch mechanism 170 in combinationwith spring 180 turns an unbiased switch into a rotationally biasedlever for actuating a switch.

FIG. 14A is a top perspective view of a body 12 having a first cover136, and a second cover 137 wherein these covers along with third cover139 are coupled to toggle switch 130 shown in FIG. 11A. Toggle switch130 is in a first position, however, this shows a correspondingly smallswitch 189.

FIG. 14B is a top perspective view of the toggle switch 130 shown inFIG. 14A in the first position, however the switch 190 is in physicalcommunication with switch mechanism 170. Switch 190 is configured to bemoved by the rotation of toggle switch 130 which acts on arms 171 and172. When toggle switch 130 is rotated such as in the direction of thearrow (FIG. 13), this rotation of the lever rotates arms 171 and 172such that these arms act upon switch 190. In addition, this switchmechanism 170 in conjunction with spring 180 is configured to be biasedin either a first position or a second position, but to generally resistbeing stuck in a middle position between the first position and thesecond position.

FIG. 14C shows the switch mechanism in contact with another type ofswitch 191 which is essentially a smaller version of switch 190 shown inFIG. 14B.

The rotation of toggle switch 130 allows for the easier switching and amechanical advantage to moving switch 190 than if that switch wasalready available. In addition, because switch mechanism 170 alsoincludes a spring 180, this allows for a singular on/off movement whichallows the toggle switch to be thrown from a first position to a secondposition, or back again without remaining in a middle position orpreventing the actuator from remaining in a middle position between thefirst position and the second position. The first position can be eitheran “on” position or an “off” position while the second position can beeither an “on” position or an “off” position.

Ultimately the above design(s) provide for an electrical box such as box10, 30, or 80 comprising a body having at least one opening forming aconnection interface 11, 31, or 79 for receiving an electrical device,and at least one opening for receiving electrical wiring such as wiringholes 19 a, 19 b, 39 a, 39 b, 39 c, 39 d, 89 a, 89 b, 89 c, 89 d, 89 e,89 f from building wiring. There can also be a connection interface 11,31, 79 disposed in the opening of the respective box 10, 30, 80, whereinthe connection interface 11 for box 10 comprises a first set ofconnection elements or posts 18 a, 18 d, 18 e, and 18 h, and a secondset of connection elements or posts 18 b, 18 c, 18 g, 18 f. Box 30comprises a first set of connection elements or posts 38 a, 38 d, 38 i,38 l, 38 e, 38 h, 38 m, and 38 p or a second set of connection elementsor posts 38 b, 38 c, 38 j, 38 k, 38 f, 38 g, 38 n, and 38 o. Box 80comprises a first set of connection elements or posts 88 a, 88 d, 83 e,88 h, 38 i, 88 l, 88 m, 88 p, 88 q, 88 t, 88 u, 88 x, and a second setof connection elements or posts 88 b, 88 c, 88 f, 88 g, 88 j, 88 k, 88n, 88 o, 88 r, 88 s, 88 v, 88 w.

The first set of connection elements are configured to couple to a firsttype of mounting device, and the second set of connection elements areconfigured to couple to a second type of mounting device. In addition,at least one of the connection elements comprises a recess such asrecesses 23 a, 23 b, 23 c, and 23 d in box 10, recesses 43 a, 43 b, 43c, 43 d, 43 e, 43 f, 43 g, and 43 h in box 30, and recesses 81 a-81 l onbox 80.

These recesses are configured to create a substantially round shapedmounting region such as mounting regions 29 a, 29 b, in box 10, mountingregions 45 a, 45 b, 45 c, and 45 d in box 30, and mounting regions 82 a,82 b, 82 c, 82 d, 32 e, and 82 f on box 80 at the connection interface.

This design can also result, in a method for providing, a mountinginterface. This method can. include presenting at least one connectioninterface such as connection, interfaces 11, 31, and 79, and thenpresenting a plurality of connection elements or posts 18 a-h, 38 a-p,88 a-x on the connection interface.

Next, the plurality of connection elements or posts 18 a-18 h, 38 a-38p, and 88 a-88 x can be spaced around the respective connectioninterface 11, 31 and 79.

Next, each respective box can provide at least one recess such asrecesses 23 a-23 d, 43 a-43 h, and 81 a-81 l in at least one of theconnection elements or posts. The at least one recess is configured toreceive an electrical device when the electrical device is mounted tothe connection interface 11, 31, 79.

From this design, there can also be a method for providing a mountinginterface comprising presenting at least one multiple gang enclosurehaving an open front face, such as connection interface 11, 31, and 79.Next, a frame such as frame SO or frame 100 can be coupled to the atleast one multiple gang box 30 or 80, over the open front face ofconnection interface 31 or 79. Frame such as frame 60 or 100 comprises acentral face 62, or spacing faces 102 a or 102 b having a spacing suchas spacing 102 i and 102 ii sufficient to space at least two differentsingle gang front covers apart from each other on the multiple gangenclosure.

Thus, this configuration creates a universal box for mounting multipledifferent front covers on a single box design.

While the boxes can have any particular suitable dimensions taken alongthe length or the width such as length 29 l or width 23 w, or length 45l, or width 45 w, or length 82 l and width 82 w, examples of the boxdimensions are explained below. These dimensions are only examples ofone embodiment and the claims are not limited to these dimensions unlessthese dimensions are included in the claims.

For example a single gang box can have a width from outer edge to outeredge 29 w of approximately 3.125 inches while a length 29 l from outeredge to outer edge of approximately 4.625 inches. Box 30 can have awidth 45 w from outer edge to outer edge of approximately 7 inches, anda length 45 l from outer edge to outer edge of approximately 4.625inches. Box 80 can have a width 82 w from outer edge to outer edge ofapproximately 10.825 inches and a length 82 l from outer edge to outeredge of approximately 4.625 inches.

In addition posts, such as posts 18 a, and 18 d can be spaced apart fromeach other along a width dimension by approximately 1.8175 inches from acenter region on each post, while posts such as posts 18 b and 18 c canbe spaced apart from each other along a width dimension by approximately1.125 inches from a center region on each post. In addition, posts 18 a,and 18 e can be spaced apart from each other by approximately 3.25inches in a length dimension from a center region on each post, whileposts 18 b and 18 f can be spaced apart from each other along a lengthdimension by approximately 3.624 inches from a center region on eachpost.

Recesses such as recesses 23 a, 23 b, 23 c, and 23 d can extend in atleast 0.7 inches such as approximately 0.718 inches from a front edge ofthe box. The box depth such as box 10 can be approximately 3.5 inchesfrom a front edge to a back surface. Recesses 23 c and 23 d areconfigured such that they have recess surfaces that are angled such thatif these surfaces were extended they would intersect at a 110 degree orapproximately 110 degree angle.

While the above embodiments are shown as examples, the claims are notlimited to the above dimensions provided unless the claims are writtento include particular dimensions.

Accordingly, while a few embodiments of the present invention have beenshown and described, it is to be understood that many changes andmodifications may be made thereunto without departing from the spiritand scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

1. An electrical box mounting system comprising: a) a front cover; b) a plate adapted and configured to couple with an electrical device; and c) a body having an open front face for receiving the electrical device, a first set of connection elements disposed in the body and accessible via the open front face; and a second set of connection elements disposed in the body and accessible via the open front face, wherein the plate includes a plurality of openings that align with the first set of connection elements, and a plurality of holes that align with the second set of connection elements when the plate is inserted info the open front face of the body, the front cover being adapted and configured to cover and seal the electrical device when the front cover, the plate and the electrical, device are assembled with respect to the body.
 2. The electrical box mounting system of claim 1, further comprising a first set of fasteners for passing through the plurality of openings formed in the plate to engage the first set of connection elements to secure the front cover to the body, and a second set of fasteners for passing through the plurality of holes formed in the plate to engage the second set of connection elements to secure the plate to the body.
 3. The electrical box mounting system as in claim 1, wherein the first set of connection elements comprises an outer set of connection elements, and the second set of connection elements comprises an inner set of connection elements.
 4. The electrical box mounting system of claim 1, wherein the plate further includes a plurality of apertures for securing the electrical device to the plate.
 5. The electrical box mounting system as in claim 4, wherein the plurality of apertures formed in the plate are configured to allow a strap mounted electrical device to be coupled to the plate, when the plate is coupled to the second set of connection elements.
 6. The electrical box mounting system as in claim 1, wherein the body comprises a single gang electrical enclosure.
 7. The electrical box mounting system as in claim 1, wherein the second set of connection elements is recessed in the body relative to the first set of connection elements.
 8. The electrical box mounting system as in claim 1, further comprising an exterior mounting bracket extending from the body, the exterior mounting bracket being configured to mount the body to an exterior wall.
 9. The electrical box mounting system as in claim 1, wherein two of the plurality of openings and two of the plurality of holes are positioned on a top region of the plate and two of the plurality of openings and two of the plurality of holes are positioned on a bottom region of the plate.
 10. The electrical box mounting system as in claim 1, wherein the first set of connection elements are separate and distinct from the second set of connection elements, and wherein the first set of connection elements are spaced a first distance apart, while the second set of connection elements are spaced a second distance apart, wherein the first distance is greater than the second distance.
 11. The electrical box mounting system of claim 1, the body further comprising a wiring hole for receiving electrical building wiring into the body for supplying power to the electrical device.
 12. A device mounting system comprising: a) first and second front covers; b) first and second plates, each of the first and second plates being adapted and configured to couple with first and second electrical devices, respectively, each of the first arid second plates further including a plurality of openings and a plurality of holes; c) a body including an open front face and first and second groups of connection elements with each of the first and second groups of connection elements comprising a first set of connection elements disposed in the body and accessible via the open front face, and a second set of connection elements disposed in the body and accessible via the open front face; and d) a frame including first and second device openings, with each of the first and second device openings defining a single gang opening, and a face located between the first and second openings; wherein when the frame, the first plate and the second plate are assembled with respect to the body with the frame being disposed between the first and second plates and the body, a plurality of cutouts formed in the frame are aligned with the first and second groups of connection elements, the plurality of openings formed in the first plate align with the first set of connection elements of the first group of connection elements and the plurality of holes formed in the first plate align with the second set of connection elements of the first group of connection elements, the plurality of openings formed in the second plate align with the first set of connection elements of the second group of connection elements and the plurality of holes formed in the second plate align with the second set of connection elements of the second group of connection elements; and wherein the first cover is adapted and configured to cover and seal the first electrical device and the second cover is adapted and configured to individually cover and seal the second electrical device.
 13. The device mounting system as in claim 12, wherein the face is configured to space the first and second device openings a sufficient distance apart to allow the first and second plates, the first and second electrical, devices and the first and second covers to be secured to the body.
 14. The device mounting system as in claim 12, further comprising a plurality of fasteners for passing through the plurality of openings formed in each of the first and second plates and the plurality of cutouts formed in the frame to engage each of the first set of connection elements to secure each of the first and second front covers to the body, and for passing through the plurality of holes formed in each of the first and second plates and the plurality of cutouts formed in the frame to engage each of the second set of connection elements to secure each of the first and second plates to the body.
 15. The device mounting system as in claim 12, further comprising a gasket disposed between the body and the frame.
 16. The device mounting system as in claim 15, wherein the gasket further comprises a groove for indexing with the frame and the body to form a water resistant seal between the frame and the body.
 17. The device mounting system as in claim 12, the body further comprising a plurality of wiring holes for receiving electrical building wiring into the body.
 18. The device mounting system as in claim 12, wherein each of the first set of connection elements are separate and distinct from each of the second set of connection elements with the first set of connection elements comprising an outer set of connection elements and the second set of connection elements comprising an inner set of connection elements with the first set of connection elements being spaced a first distance apart and the second set of connection elements being spaced a second distance apart, the first distance being greater than the second distance.
 19. The device mounting system as in claim 12, wherein each of the second set of connection elements is recessed in the body relative to the first set of connection elements.
 20. The device mounting system as in claim 12, further comprising an exterior mounting bracket extending from the body, the exterior mounting bracket being configured to mount the body to an exterior wall.
 21. The device mounting system as in claim 12, wherein the body comprises a double gang electrical enclosure.
 22. The device mounting system as in claim 12, wherein the body comprises a triple gang electrical enclosure.
 23. The device mounting system as in claim 12, wherein the first and second plates each include a plurality of apertures for securing the first and second electrical devices to the plate. 